FORT COLLINS, Colo. – Colorado State University Director of Athletics Jack Graham Sunday announced that Steve Fairchild will not return for the 2012 season and that the university has begun a national search for the Rams’ next head football coach.

A leading national search firm, Spencer Stuart, has been retained to assist in the process. Graham will also consult with CSU President Tony Frank on how to best engage the campus community in finding CSU's next head coach.

“I appreciate all that Steve has done for Colorado State University,” Graham said. “As a former player, graduate, assistant and head coach, Steve took great pride in our football program and university. He will always be a valued member of the Ram family.”

Fairchild had a 16-33 record in four years at the helm, including a 7-6 record and victory over Fresno State in the 2008 New Mexico Bowl.

“Hiring the right football coach at CSU is one of the most important things I will do as the director of athletics,” Graham said. “I will seek advice and support from a variety of sources to be sure we are confident we have the best person in place to lead our football program.”

Under the terms of his employment agreement, Fairchild will be paid an amount equal to his annual base salary of $350,000 through the end of 2012. Funding will come from private funds, not state money.

Secondary coach Tim Duffie has been named transitional coach. He will direct the football staff and players and manage the program’s ongoing recruiting efforts until a new head coach is named.

“I would like to thank Colorado State University for giving me the opportunity to come back and serve as head football coach. I would also like to thank all the players that I have had the opportunity to coach, as well as the coaching staff. Their hard work and commitment is greatly appreciated.

“We have made some great strides over the last four years, both on and off the field, and I feel the program is ready to take a major step forward.

“With approximately 19 starters returning for the 2012 season, I regret not having the opportunity to see the process through. However, I realize that college football is a bottom-line business, and I knew when I was hired that I would be ultimately judged by wins and losses.

“I’m extremely fortunate to have been a player, assistant coach, and head coach at my school, Colorado State, with a stint as an NFL coach in between. Nancy and I look forward to the next chapter in this journey of life.”